KALAMAZOO, MI – A Kalamazoo man who admitted to fatally shooting his wife just a day after being served divorce papers has been sentenced to decades in prison.

Marcus Lofton, 44, received a sentence of 25 to 50 years on a second-degree murder conviction for killing Alicia Lofton, 38, on August 17, 2023. Authorities said Lofton fired 15 shots at his wife, ending her life outside their home only six months after their wedding.

The sentencing followed Lofton’s plea deal, which came after a prior trial resulted in a hung jury and a declared mistrial. During the hearing, Lofton chose to remain silent as family members of Alicia addressed the court and expressed their grief.

Arthur Joseph, Alicia’s father, delivered a tearful statement directly to Lofton following Judge Scott Noto’s sentencing. Joseph expressed his family’s anguish and condemned his daughter’s killer, describing the deep loss and pain the murder had caused.

Records show Alicia Lofton had filed for divorce and planned to sell the couple’s shared home shortly before her death. Tensions between the couple had reportedly escalated earlier that year after Marcus Lofton was arrested in May 2023 on a domestic violence charge that resulted in a no-contact order protecting Alicia.

Prosecutors said on the morning after Alicia served Marcus with divorce papers, the situation became deadly. Marcus Lofton went to the house, ostensibly to collect his belongings. According to investigators, the visit turned violent after an argument erupted.

During the confrontation, Lofton grabbed a Glock pistol belonging to Alicia from a drawer, investigators said. A struggle ensued, and the gun discharged. Alicia ran for safety, locking herself in a bathroom and attempting to escape through a window. Lofton forced entry and shot her multiple times as she tried to flee.

Neighbors heard the gunfire and quickly called 911. Responding officers discovered Alicia Lofton’s body on the lawn outside the home, noting she had suffered numerous fatal gunshot wounds. Marcus Lofton left the scene in a sport utility vehicle but was later apprehended.

Alicia Lofton is survived by her three adult children and other family members, all left mourning her violent and sudden loss. The case has drawn attention to the dangers faced by victims attempting to leave abusive relationships.

Lofton will be eligible for parole after serving 25 years, but could remain in prison for up to 50 years based on the severity of the crime.